Chat with Matt Williamson

Welcome to SportsNation! On Wednesday, ESPN NFL Insider Matt Williamson will stop by to chat some NFL.

Before joining ESPN in 2005, Williamson was both an NFL and college scout for the Cleveland Browns. Before that, he spent three seasons as assistant recruiting coordinator at the University of Pittsburgh and followed J.D. Brookhart from Pitt to the University of Akron, where Williamson was the director of football operations.

Matt Williamson

(11:55 AM)

john barker (Galion,Oh)

Are the Cleveland Browns going to go after Greg Jennings Mike Wallace or Wes Welker? I think any of the 3 and a player such as Goldson or Revis is possible.

Matt Williamson

(11:57 AM)

CLEV could certainly use another WR, but I don't think it is imperative to land a whale there right now. Instead, I would focus mostly on the D with my $$$ as they transition to a 3-4. OLB and CB and FS certainly come to mind. Then maybe grab a WR in the 2nd round or so.

Chuck (Miami,Fl)

Hey Matt, it looks like the Dolphins are not interested in signing CB Sean Smith at the money he wants is it realistic they can fill both CB spots in the draft next month?

Matt Williamson

(11:57 AM)

Seems unlikely-and Clemons is a UFA at Safety. Will have to land some starting caliber CB (at least) in free agency. But I can understand not wanting to break the bank on Smith.

Sam (Nashua, NH)

Hi Matt, love your work. If Randy Moss and Jerry Rice were both on the same team, in their primes, with an Elite QB, which one would be the defensive coordinators top priority in stopping?

Matt Williamson

(11:59 AM)

Wow. Good question. Rice is the GOAT-I think that is undeniable. But that isn't what you asked. It isn't like Jerry had any weaknesses, but I think Moss might be the answer to your question because Moss is more likely to get 6 on one play...but of course Rice would just torment such coverage up and down the field.

JC (Utica, NY)

With the Phins close to re-signing Hartline, how good can they be if they add Mike Wallace and a seam TE like Dustin Keller? I'd also love to see them draft Tavon Austin at #12, he'd be another dynamic weapon that could replace Bess in the slot when his contract expires next year. Thoughts?

Matt Williamson

(12:00 PM)

I think that is too early for Austin. And would rather have Lane Johnson at #12 for example. Which brings me to my worry in this situation: Protection. I am VERY high on Tannehill (Big Picture) and I think those receiver moves are strong, but what about the OTs? Long is gone and Martin didn't impress in Year One

David (Canada)

NFC East blogger wrote an article today about possibility of a Revis to Philly trade with an assumed Asomugha release. Seems like an obvious landing spot given their need and large amount of cap space. Do you see that as a possible scenario?

Matt Williamson

(12:02 PM)

Hadn't thought of that one, but Yes, I can buy that. DRC and Nnamdi will be gone and it is a massive need for sure. The teams I had been focusing on were SF, TBay and ATL for Revis

john barker (galion,oh)

We dont have a 2nd round pick aka josh gordon supplemental draft so do you see any chance of the browns getting Revis or Goldson then taking a guy like wallace or breaston

Matt Williamson

(12:03 PM)

Good point on that 2nd rounder for Gordon-slipped my mind, but I also have high hopes now for Gordon, esp deep downfield. Breston isn't the answer and isn't healthy, but could be a decent addition to the mix. Wallace is super pricey and like Gordon is a home run hitter. Not sure he is worth that cash either.

Trent Baalke (Santa Clara, CA )

If you were me, would you trade for Revis? We have more picks than we can possibly use, but isn't $16 million/year too much for a non-QB coming off an ACL? Also, everyone wants to say our secondary stinks, but it was very good before J Smith got hurt, and Aldon was nursing a shoulder as well.

Matt Williamson

(12:05 PM)

That secondary took WAY too much heat...the pass rush fell apart! Anyways, I love Revis, but I wouldn't give up the needed picks and cap space to land a great player coming off a major injury. Just too many red flags right now. But SF should heavily be in the draft day market of trading up-maybe for a impact DL like Short or S like Vecarro? But this is a deep S draft and SF will land a Goldson replacement early. They are sitting pretty.

Blueman (Indy)

I know g/c is probably a bigger priority for the Colts but do they have a shot at Vollmer or Loadholdt to play RT ?

Matt Williamson

(12:06 PM)

The Colts have a ton to spend and can get involved with any UFA they chose. Those are two great names...then maybe draft interior OL, which I do think is the bigger need. Or sign Levitre instead of the RT

Tommy (NOLA)

Matt Williamson

(12:07 PM)

Assuming he is healthy, Grimes is far and away #1. Smith would be my 2nd. Then Lewis (I assume that is who you mean), Toler and Williams, who I think is a bit overrated.

Steve (California)

MW tell the tech guys to put auto update on!

Matt Williamson

(12:08 PM)

Okee Dokee!

John (Wisc)

Do you see the packers signing Chris Canty? Good fit?

Matt Williamson

(12:09 PM)

I like Canty quite a bit, esp as a 3-4 DE and am kinda shocked that someone hasn't nabbed him already. Maybe he is asking for too much cash right now. GB? Sure. Canty is versatile and can push the pocket as an interior pass rusher, which would be very welcome for the Pack

John (Wisc)

If Tavon Austin is available to the Packers at 26 do you take him? The Packers would have the most dynamic pair of Slot WR's in the game and both would provide alot of flexibility to the offense.

Matt Williamson

(12:10 PM)

No. He is worth that pick. But while GB is a very good team, they really need a lot and I don't think they can afrord such a luxory pick...although free agency might change my mind. But OL, RB and DL need to take priority.

Jared (Tennessee )

Possible replacements for the titans when Jared Cook walks

Matt Williamson

(12:11 PM)

TONS of TEs in free agency this year and in this draft class. Plus, I am VERY intrigued with T Thompson. Could see Cook blowing up at his next stop btw.

john barker (galion,oh)

any chance the Cleveland Browns draft Millner

Matt Williamson

(12:11 PM)

Doubt he is still there honestly. How does he get by OAK and DET? Could even go 1st overall now

Nick (middletown, nj) [via mobile]

Who are the bills most likely to land in free agency that could help them immediately?

Matt Williamson

(12:12 PM)

How about Cook to BUF? Great complement to Chandler. A receiving TE would be great for this team. Another WR now as well. 3-4 OLB is a big need too.

Scott (SF)

Would a Dunta Robinson be a decent fit in SF? He's not a "lock down" guy, but I'd say he's pretty good yet. Seems more their style. Not a super flashy move and not as expensive.

Matt Williamson

(12:13 PM)

Perhaps. Not a huge Robinson fan here though, but he is physical and plays with toughness, which SF likes. Only at the right price, but he might not be an upgrade.

Trey Anastasio (Burlington, VT)

Wouldn't it make sense for the Pats to go after DRC in free agency than to re-sign Talib with his character/injury risk? How do they compare as players? Thank you very much for your time!

Matt Williamson

(12:14 PM)

Both have excellent size/length and overall are extrememly talented. Talib gets beat more I would say and is more of a risk taker. Pays off sometimes though. DRC really doesn't like contact and avoids run defense-which I doubt Belichick is cool with.

Midge (Indianapolis)

The Colts have ton to spend but do they have to be careful to structure contracts with the idea they have to have money to sign Luck,Fleener,and Allen in the future or is that far of enough not to be concerned with?

Matt Williamson

(12:15 PM)

Too far away, but I do think INDY needs to realize that just because they made the playoffs that they are a contender all of a sudden and just need a vet or two to put them over the hump. I would still be very much in the market for young UFAs.

Tim (NJ)

Do you see the Giants continuing their youth movement with a guy like Keenan Lewis?

Matt Williamson

(12:16 PM)

Lewis played well and is peaking in his career at the right time. Good tackler and sturdy, but not a ball hawk. NYG needs another CB for sure. I like the fit if the first crazy wave of free agency passes and Lewis is still standing.

Tony (Richmond, CA)

Which of the excellent 2012 rookie QBs are likely to fall into a sophomore slump a la Cam Newton?

Matt Williamson

(12:18 PM)

Well, I don't think Newton fell into a slump. Thought he was very good, esp in the 2nd half of hte season and did a fantastic job of becoming more of a pro style QB in the pocket. Dalton is the better example of a guy that has crumbled of late, but Dalton never was a Cam/RG3/CK type prospect in my mind

Nick (middletown, nj) [via mobile]

If Geno Smith falls to Buffalo at 8 they have to take him right?

Matt Williamson

(12:18 PM)

I gotta think so...great fit in their new O and in that area of the country. And surely resigning T Jackson isn't enough to prevent drafting a QB!

Jim (Westerville, OH)

Do you see Urlacher returning to the Bears?

Matt Williamson

(12:19 PM)

Only on a very friendly deal. He is prob worth more to CHI than anyone else, but I worry that he might be done.

Scott (SD)

Absolute # 1, best, most impressive athlete you've seen in person during all of your years. (I'm asking this because of that Sports Science tourney where they picked Bo Jackson as the best athlete of all time)

Matt Williamson

(12:20 PM)

Never saw anyone like BO in person, but being around Larry Fitzgerald those years was simply amazing...but not from an athletic standpoint as much as a work ethic/brilliant player perspective. With the Browns, we didn't have a lot of WOW talent, although I was there before Winslow's injuries-and he was remarkable coming out of The U.

Trey Anastasio (Burlington, VT)

I'm a loyal twitter follower, love your work! If you were the Pats and you could sign (1) UFA this offeason, who would it be?

Matt Williamson

(12:22 PM)

Well, they will sign many more than one now...and my hunch is Brady mentioned that he would like to have Welker back when TB restructred his deal-but that is just my hunch. I think Vollmer has the most value out of Vollmer/Welker/Talib, but I also like Cannon as a RT replacement-but Cannon could be a heck of a OG too. But ANYone? Hmmm...Jennings maybe? A DB would be great, but which?

Dan (FL)

Is Parcells overated as a personnel man? Long over Ryan will haunt the Dolphins for another decade.

Matt Williamson

(12:23 PM)

But they didn't miss on Jake Long

Chet K (LA)

Is Jared Cook going to blow up in a good way or a bad way?

Matt Williamson

(12:24 PM)

Guess either is a strong possibility,but I felt like TENN really didn't do a good job with him. When he was on the field, they threw-and everyone knew it. And didn't move him around like a Hernandez type, which is what he is. Also, Cook can really run-need to send him deep more.

Nubbz (Big Rock Rd)

Dubbs, get some Gaslight Anthem on that Ipod of yours! Anyhoo should I expect the Vikings to land any big name recevers (Jennings, Amendola, Wallace) or should I ready myself for a guy like Donald Jones, Ramses Barden, or Brandon Gibson?

Matt Williamson

(12:25 PM)

I love Wallace to Minny, but it sounds like MIA will be very tough to beat on him. But Jennings? Sure! I think Minny will be right in that sweepstakes, as they should.

Dan (FL)

I don't think anyone would take Long over Ryan now, and think few others would of then.

Matt Williamson

(12:26 PM)

No one would take Long over Ryan right now, but that doesn't mean that the Long pick was a bad one. He was an elite LT before injuries.

Michael [via mobile]

I'd rather see the Browns sign a top tier TE in FA over a top tier WR. Am I crazy?

Matt Williamson

(12:26 PM)

I hear ya, as Little improved as the season went along. Chud loves his TEs though and is great at dveloping them...which gives me great hope for Cameron.

Jeff (So Cal)

I'm a little worried at how quiet the Chargers have been. There OL is a train wreck and if they lose Vasquez it could be another long year. Will they keep him?

Matt Williamson

(12:27 PM)

They better! But a team like Indy could be real hard to beat on Vasquez/Levitre. And yes, that OL is a total nightmare. But what did you expect SD to do? Free agency hasn't even opened yet!

Ben (Charlotte)

there's no way the Lions can afford him, but man, wouldn't Wes Welker look GREAT operating in the middle as Megatron stretches the field deep?

Matt Williamson

(12:28 PM)

No question. In fact, KC Joyner mentioned DET as a great landing spot for Welker in an article he wrote today-and I very much agree. But DET has SO many other needs-and little to spend.

Jared (Tennessee )

Which free agent guard would you pick up and play next to Warmack. Levitre, Rinehart or Vasquez. Obviously since we are picking Warmack at 10

Matt Williamson

(12:29 PM)

Think Warmack will be there? If not, Cooper isn't a bad backup plan. The Titans interior OL has been a mess for a while now, but not positive that you need to use big resources on TWO OGs this offseason.

Hanson (DC)

Any ideas on how the Redskins can get better with no cap space and limited raft picks? Last years improvement was nice but do we expect a step back this year?

Matt Williamson

(12:31 PM)

I sure do...esp when factoring in RG's injury too. RT is a mess and could use more OL help. Fletcher's replacement at ILB isn't on the roster and I really dislike this secondary. Hate to say it, but they look like a 6-10 type team to me next year.

J (MA)

How come noone is really talking about McCallebb out of Auburn with all the Welker / Harvin interests out there. This young man seems to fit that type of mold.

Matt Williamson

(12:32 PM)

I can't say that I know a ton about the guy except for that he is blazing fast and only about as big as my right leg. Welker and Harvin are very sturdy and able to take a pounding...I don't see that from McC

Sam (Nashua, NH)

What type of player do you see Donta Hightower from NE developing into?

Matt Williamson

(12:32 PM)

Heavy downhill improving thumper who will develop into a good blitzer...maybe a Pro Bowl or two over his career...solid

Ruth (Alaska)

Is Jason Peters still the best LT in the NFL when he comes back? I notice he hasnt been picked yet in your mock

Matt Williamson

(12:33 PM)

Who knows. He is older and coming off very serious injuries. SO many question marks. But I do agree that he was the best linemen in the game two years ago.

Steve (Bristol)

Williamson: Hate to say it, but they look like a 6-10 type team to me next year.What did you project them to finish last year? And do you really think Fletcher will just walk away after all he's been through so much with this team and they are finally seeing some good improvement?

Matt Williamson

(12:35 PM)

I don't think Fletcher will leave, but have to plan for that day-it is coming soon Bro! I picked WASH to finish last in their division last year and they way outperformed my expectations. I see last year as a giant step forward, but I am expecting a smaller step back this year and then a very possible rebound the following year. Much more hope for the franchise as a whole now, but could be brutal offseason.

Jason (San Francisco)

I just saw your projection for Donta Hightower who do you believe has a higher ceiling Hightower or Upshaw from Baltimore?

Matt Williamson

(12:36 PM)

Hightower. Different positions really, but Upshaw was just a real good player vs. the run as a rookie-which is great-but didn't see an explosive pass rusher, which is a problem as a perimeter front line player. He played much like Jarrett Johnson for BALT last year-which isn't a bad thing, but not a high cieliing.

Matt (Houston)

Better career/body of work...Aerosmith or AC/DC?

Matt Williamson

(12:36 PM)

I prefer AC/DC, but I bet I am in the minority

Rick (Kansas)

Why did Crabtree look like a bust when Alex Smith was QB and a franchise player when Kaepernick was QB? As a Chiefs fan it makes me nervous that Bowe's potential continue to go to waste.

Matt Williamson

(12:38 PM)

Well, Crabtree did have a very difficult beginning to his career with injuries, holdouts and his QB situation. Then it all came together with Harbaugh using him much more and Crabtree finally looking comfortable and understanding the league better. Reid will keep Bowe involved, but as you prob know-I am not an A Smith fan here

Scott (Northglenn, CO)

Heard a trade rumor for Revis Island on the radio - Broncos give a 1st, 3rd and Dumervil for Jets 1st and Revis..this is too one-sided right? More like Broncos 1st and Elvis for Darrelle right?

Matt Williamson

(12:39 PM)

Hmmm...I agree that what you proposed is more likely. I don't love Elvis though-can run right at him with a lot of sucess, but in NYJ's 3-4, he could have more value. He is also a big cap hit, which could free up room for Revis.

Walter White (ABQ, NM )

Do you see Greg Jennings as still in his prime or a declining player? Does he get as much as Bowe?

Matt Williamson

(12:41 PM)

Good to have you WW-big fan here! Tough call on Jennings, we just didn't have a lot to go off last year. But as such a good route runner, I think Jennings is built for the long haul and eventually when he slows could be a D Mason type WR-as opposed to Wallace, who once he loses his speed might become obsolete. Both prob get more than Bowe-more teams competing and driving the market up.

Blueman (Indy)

Where do you see Steven Jackson ending up?

Matt Williamson

(12:41 PM)

Funny you mentioned that Blueman! I have an INSIDER article coming out tomorrow on that very topic!

Mark (RI)

Goldson a good fit for NE?

Matt Williamson

(12:42 PM)

Good in coverage and can be physical, but misses a lot of tackles and will give up some big plays. More FS than SS, although those lines are blurrier in the NFL now more than ever. I really like McC at FS though and wouldn't want to move him. Don't love the fit. And again, very good S Draft-go that route perhaps for NE, although BB has been pretty bad drafting DBs high.

Phil (NJ)

Who should be the G Men's contract priority, Nicks or Cruz

Matt Williamson

(12:44 PM)

Nicks. However, they understand his injury history and overall durability better than anyone. Flukey or will this persist? But to me, Nicks has many more special qualities than Cruz and is a true #1 WR

RT (Erie)

who would make a better slot wr, george or kramer from seinfield? Giddy up indeed

Matt Williamson

(12:45 PM)

Kramer is more of an outside-the-numbers type WR with his long body-throw him jump balls. He gets killed in short areas in the slot...but that is just George's game! Built to handle the punishment. Jerry behind center obviously.

Rob (San Antonio)

Do you think the Falcon's releasing Robinson is a sign they are in the market for Revis?

Matt Williamson

(12:46 PM)

YES. Nolan loves using three CBs, even on early downs. They need a guy bad...like Revis or Grimes.

tc (toronto)

Are the Rams really letting Amendola walk? So we'll have ZERO WR's???

Matt Williamson

(12:47 PM)

I don't agree. I think Givens is a Wallace-like home run guy with a very bright future. I also have hope for Quick this year-don't kill him for his rookie season. Very small school...tough adjustment. I do like Gibson btw and think he could be a great UFA value for someone.

Phil (NJ)

What position does Elaine play?

Matt Williamson

(12:47 PM)

Girls don't play football Phil...now you are talking crazy

Dan (Cincinnati)

Sounds like the Bengals still have some concerns about Andy Dalton. How about drafting a strong armed QB like Tyler Bray in round 3?

Matt Williamson

(12:48 PM)

Been saying that for a while. What if Geno falls to them in Round 1 even? EJ Manuel in Round 2? I think they should draft a high upside/high risk guy.

Frank (Arizona)

What do you see Arizona doing at QB?

Matt Williamson

(12:50 PM)

I would send their early 3rd rounder to Philly for Foles and sign Stanton. Let Kolb walk and free up some cap room. Go into camp with Foles, Stanton, Lindley and Skelton and Hoyer, who I would tender. Maybe even add a draft pick to the mix. See who sticks.

Rob (San Antonio)

I know it's football talk but how about Geno's goal the other night!!!

Matt Williamson

(12:50 PM)

Malkin's goal was fantastic Bro! And Sid is playing out of his mind. My Pens are strong!

Brandon (Phoenix)

Chiefs should still draft a QB correct?

Matt Williamson

(12:51 PM)

Yes...this year or next at the latest

Rayshawn (Kentucky )

Can you see the Pats going 2 WR's early like they did with RB 2 years ago with Ridley and Vereen?

Matt Williamson

(12:52 PM)

Certainly could. They really don't have any WRs on the roster! And this is a deep WR draft. Could mine some gold out of this draft, although that has not been BB's specialty either.

Matt (Houston)

Cook to Chicago? If not, does Eifert seem like the pick to you? Thank

Matt Williamson

(12:52 PM)

I like Cook there a lot. Eifert would be great as well, but only if they have improved their OL by DDay.

Jerry Reese (East Rutherford, NJ)

Why haven't I cut David Diehl yet? He is trash. I can put his salary to good use and re-sign Kenny Phillips and Martellus Bennett.

Matt Williamson

(12:53 PM)

I don't have an answer for you Jerry..but that would very much be a move I approve of

Handle (Canton)

Jake Long FA talented and plays cornerstone position,but injuries have taken toll.Does he get Top 5 LT money or is he a guy that no one will take a chance with big dollar long term deal?

Matt Williamson

(12:54 PM)

I hate to duck the questions, but I think this one is totally up to the doctors. If healthy, yes, but if the docs think he will always be dinged, then you just can't. And MIA knows his body better than anyone (Except for maybe Mrs. Long)...and they let him walk-leaving a gaping hole at OT. That might tell us all we need to know.

Rob (San Antonio)

Could you imagine Peyton throwing to Welker?

Matt Williamson

(12:54 PM)

Sure could. I think that is his 2nd most likely landing spot behind NEng

Handle (Canton)

Colts will need to find another WR,not top of the list but do they sign a lower level FA like last year with Avery or do they look at late rd draft or even rookie FA ?

Matt Williamson

(12:55 PM)

That would be down my priority list for Indy...maye start considering it in the 3rd roundish.

John (NYC)

I'm in the minority with you on AC/DC....My first concert as a kid was AC/DC, and my most vivid memory is the cannons going off when they performed 'For Those About to Rock"......favorite concert memory?

Matt Williamson

(12:57 PM)

Such a great song-and when I am dragging on the eliptical machine, it is my go-to tune. Two Pink Floyd shows during my early 20s were outstanding, as was G N R with Metallica in a heavy rain storm...all three at Three Rivers Stadium. BTW, saw Brit Floyd on Friday-very fun and they did an excellent job

Frank (Arizona)

DO you see Ryan Mallett getting traded? Browns, Bengals, or Cardinals?

Matt Williamson

(12:57 PM)

Deal has to be right. I like CLEV or ZONA there, but Pats won't give him away! NEng could then go sign Cassel after he gets cut and draft a QB

Matt Williamson

(12:58 PM)

But it doesn't look like TB is going anywhere soon...might be time to let Mallet move on

Mike (Brooklyn)

Opinion on Will Beatty's contract? I think it's a good deal for both sides.

Matt Williamson

(12:58 PM)

Very much agree...although he could prob got more on open market. Good situation for sure though.

Rob (San Antonio)

Civic Arena Black Sabbath's Heaven and Hell tour. I was there at Three Rivers for Floyd. Were you the guy that spilled my beer?

Matt Williamson

(12:59 PM)

Very cool. I don't spill beer. Okay Folks, I am out! GREAT chat today. You guys brought it strong...and I wasn't too shabby myself! Drop me a line on Twitter @WilliamsonNFL